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VFW Post 4927 celebrates 125th anniversary in new Port Jefferson Station home

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By Michael Campbell |

VFW Post 4927 recently celebrated its 125th anniversary.

On Oct. 5, the post invited community members and local elected officials to commemorate the occasion.

After enjoying refreshments provided by Chick-fil-A, VFW Post 4927 Commander James McCann and Quartermaster Cameron Clawson presented certificates of appreciation to local leaders who have supported the VFW over the years.

Among those recognized were Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa, State Assemblymembers Ed Flood and Jodi Giglio, Port Jefferson Deputy Mayor Rebecca Kassay, Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, and State Senator Anthony Palumbo.

The post also received proclamations from the New York State Senate and Brookhaven Town Council, marking VFW Day on Sept. 29 and celebrating the 125th anniversary of the organization.

The festivities took place at the newer home of VFW Post 4927, which relocated from Centereach to Port Jefferson Station three years ago.

For many long-time members, the move was bittersweet.

They had fond memories of the old hall at 31 Horseblock Road, but the downsizing was necessary due to declining membership. Post 4927 saw a drop in members following the COVID-19 pandemic, as many older veterans passed away, some stopped attending due to health issues, and others struggled to return after their routines were disrupted.

“We want to make this our permanent home,” said Quartermaster Cameron Clawson to Greater Long Island about the new Port Jefferson Station location. “And build up a new community here, and build up from the glory days of Centereach.”

Clawson became an active member of the post last Veterans Day after a close friend from the Marine Corps tragically died by suicide. Reflecting on his friend’s death, Clawson shared, “I was going through his Facebook to see if there was anything I could’ve picked up on. I was kinda driving myself crazy. On the surface, there was nothing.”

Clawson explained that when other veteran friends showed signs of depression, he and others would rally around them, offering support. However, this situation was different. “He was sort of one of those ones that suffered in silence,” said Clawson.

His friend’s death marked a turning point for Clawson, motivating him to dedicate his time to an organization that offers community and support for veterans.

Tragically, VFW Post 4927 had also experienced the loss of one of its own members to suicide.

The post remains committed to raising awareness about veterans’ mental health and keeps the issue at the forefront. They prominently display the suicide prevention hotline and frequently raise funds for mental health organizations. For more information about the VFW Post 4927, click here.

Editor’s note: The story has been updated for accuracy purposes.

Top: Commander James McCann on the left and Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich on the right.

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